If you’ve ever tried to run Facebook ads for your business, you may have dealt with an ad being disapproved. Facebook has many rules and regulations when it comes to the advertising it allows. While the list of prohibited ads on Facebook is rather large, we’ve narrowed it down to 5 that seem more common.
1. TOBACCO AND RELATED PRODUCTS
Facebook prohibits the promotion of tobacco or any tobacco related products. This includes vaping products, e-cigarettes, and hookah pipes. So if you’re a vape or smoke shop trying to grow your company through Facebook or Instagram ads, this is not the place for you.
However, if you’re an anti-smoking organization advertising against tobacco use, you’re in luck! Facebook ads in the anti-tobacco category are compliant with Facebook’s ad policies.
2. WEAPONS, AMMUNITION AND EXPLOSIVES
Facebook prohibits the advertising for the sale or use of weapons, ammunition or explosives. This includes guns, gun accessories, knives, ammo, and even paintball guns! Ads promoting the sale of any of these items will be banned immediately and never be seen.
On the flip side, you are allowed to promote the sale of firearm safety courses, safety gear, plastic and toy guns, gun cases, and hunting clothing. Keep in mind these ads must be targeted to users over the age of 18.
3. ADULT PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND CONTENT
No, you’re not allowed to advertise pornography on Facebook. But this dives a little deeper with the banning of nudity (explicit or even implied), or anything remotely sexually provocative. In addition, ads that promote the sale of sexual products are also banned.
However, ads for contraception and family planning services are totally fine with Facebook.
4. PAYDAY LOANS, CHECK ADVANCES AND BAIL BONDS
Facebook prohibits any advertising promoting any short-term loans designed to carry someones expenses until their next payday. According to Facebook, a short term loan refers to “a loan of 90 days or less”.
5. DRUGS OR DRUG RELATED PRODUCTS
The reason you don’t see ads for drugs, prescription or otherwise, on Facebook is because they’re simply not allowed. According to Facebook, “ads must not promote the sale or use of illegal, prescription, or recreational drugs.” This also includes any drug-related paraphernalia or drug delivery methods.
However, Facebook recently announced that ads related to CBD are slowly being allowed in the mix, but with some heavy stipulations.
So if you fall into any of these categories and you’re trying to take advantage of one of the largest online advertising platforms out there, you’re out of luck here. For the full list of prohibited ads on Facebook, you can visit their ad guidelines here.
If you’re not sure if your ads will be approved or disapproved by Facebook and would like some help, feel free to message us for a free ads review.